What does the Hadith say about perfume when in Ihram?

1st Apr 2017by Hajj Safe

If you wish to get a PDF copy, please email us and we will send it to you.

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Hajj Safe has produced this poster and the accompanying video to explain
the issues around not wearing perfume while in the state of Ihram. Even shampoo
and shower gel that contains perfume is not allowed while in a state of Ihram-
not only perfume that is sprayed or dabbed on.

As shown in the hadiths in the poster, the wearing of perfume is clearly
not allowed while in a state of Ihram. Additional evidence for this is the
statement of Ibn
Umar (RA), who reported that Umar (RA) smelled the pleasant smell of perfume
coming from Mu'aawiyah (RA) while the latter was in the state of Ihram. Umar
(RA) commanded him: "Get back, and wash it off. I have heard the Prophet (SAWS) saying: “A pilgrim must be unkempt and
without any perfume."

Another mistake that people make is thinking that
cannot shower at all. This is incorrect, and due to the heat it is important to
shower, especially while performing Hajj, as it is strenuous and goes on for
several days; however, this must involve using unscented products.

In addition, the Sunnah is to purify yourself completely before entering into Ihram, because
you will not be able to do so or apply perfume afterwards. Therefore, before
entering Ihram, the pilgrim should perform ghusl, after which men are permitted
to apply some perfume, but BEFORE entering Ihram and putting on the garments
for Ihram. This is because ‘Aieshah (RA)
said: “When the Prophet (SAWS) wanted to enter Ihram, he would perfume himself
with the best perfume he could find, then I would see shining traces of that
musk on his head and beard after that.”

If the pilgrim applies perfume out of
forgetfulness, they should wash it off once they realise their mistake, but no
expiation is required, as Allah says in the Quran: “And there is no sin on you concerning that in which you made a mistake
except in regard to what your hearts deliberately intend” (Al-Ahzaab 33:5).

This is why Hajj
Safe has developed its unperfumed range of products, which also contain no
alcohol and no animal products. Therefore, the Hajj Safe unscented liquid soap
and wipes are permissible to be used while in Ihram, and if you have them
conveniently to hand during Hajj or Umrah, you are unlikely to make an error, which
is better.